Active Control of Transport in Molecular Assemblies

控制分子通过膜转运的能力是生物系统运行的一个关键方面。 该研究项目由分析和表面化学计划支持，旨在了解电场影响下有机膜的分子水平行为。 这种理解是控制分子跨膜转运的基础。 伊利诺伊大学的Paul Bohn教授和他的学生将使用光学荧光和标准交流阻抗测量来获得这种理解。 主要研究者为研究有机薄膜的性质而开发的光波导方法将应用于这些测量。 整个研究计划的目标是能够设计一个分子门，通过施加电信号进行操作。 跨有机膜的运输是分子分离、基因调控、过程控制方案和体内药物递送的各个方面的基础。 为了在分子水平上理解这一过程，正在进行一个研究项目，该项目探测在外加电场影响下的模型有机薄膜的行为。 将进行这些膜的光学性质和电化学性质的测量，并将获得的信息用于开发分子门控器件的设计。

The ability to control molecular transport through membranes is a crucial aspect of the operation of biological systems. This research project, supported by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, is designed to develop an understanding of the molecular level behavior of ultrathin organic membranes under the influence of electric fields. This understanding is the basis for the control of molecular transport across these membranes. Professor Paul Bohn and his students at the University of Illinois will use both optical fluorescence and standard ac impedance measurements to obtain this understanding. The optical waveguide methods developed by the Principal Investigator for the study of the properties of thin organic films will be applied to these measurements. The goal of the overall research program is to be able to design a molecular gate, operable by applying an electric signal. Transport across organic membranes is the basis for various aspects of molecular separation, gene regulation, process control schemes, and drug delivery in the body. In order to understand this process on a molecular level, a research project which probes the behavior of model organic thin films under the influence of an applied electric field is being pursued. Measurements of the optical properties and the electrochemical properties of these membranes will be carried out, and the information obtained used to develop designs for molecular gating devices.